Cabin accommodations near Redondo Beach provide access to both coastal and mountain environments within driving distance. Located in Southern California's diverse terrain, these cabins range from beach-front historic cottages to mountain retreats nestled in Angeles National Forest at elevations from sea level to 5,700 feet. Weather conditions vary significantly between coastal and mountain locations, with coastal sites maintaining mild temperatures year-round while mountain cabins experience seasonal temperature fluctuations of 30-40 degrees between day and night.
What to do
Explore tidepools and historic district: At Crystal Cove State Park, beach cottages provide direct access to marine exploration. "Walking distance to Crystal Cove Historic District, which has a couple places to eat right on the beach. Crystal Cove Historic District also has some 'preserved' beach cottages from the 20s, 30s, and 40s on the beach that are largely in ruins. It's fun to explore and check out," notes one visitor.
Hike mountain trails: Mountain cabin locations offer extensive trail networks. "Quick hike into the hills with amazing views overlooking the ocean. I stayed at the lower campsite, I believe it's #31 on the map, and I think this was the best spot in the campground as it had an unobstructed view of the water," explains a hiker at Crystal Cove's backcountry sites.
Waterfront activities: Beachside cabins provide water recreation options. "They had a movie on the beach when we were there, and fun water toys out," reports a visitor at Newport Dunes RV Resort.
What campers like
Mountain seclusion: Forest cabins offer quiet surroundings away from urban environments. A guest at Antfarm LA notes, "It's a spot where you can truly be away. We spent 5 days and didn't really see a soul. If you like to read, enjoy sunsets, exercise and travel to local spots of interest or just stay put. This is a spot for you."
Beach proximity: Coastal cabin locations provide direct beach access. "Beautiful sunsets! We stayed February 5th and 6th at site #23 but it looked like most of the sites had great views of the Pacific," reports a Crystal Cove visitor.
Recreation facilities: Many cabin locations feature additional amenities. At Thousand Trails Soledad Canyon, "The park is a large TT resort with recently remolded lodge in 2019. Great place to stay if you are a TT member," states one reviewer. This resort provides a base camp for exploring Los Angeles attractions.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Coastal cabin sites book quickly due to limited availability. "This campground fills up fast so book early!" warns a Crystal Cove State Park visitor.
Wildlife awareness: Mountain cabin locations may have wildlife encounters. At Antfarm LA, a camper mentioned, "I did see my first rattlesnake and heard the coyotes at night. Very peaceful spot for a long weekend."
Terrain conditions: Backcountry cabin sites often have challenging ground conditions. "The ground is hard packed and rocky. Free/semi-free standing tents recommended," advises a camper about Crystal Cove's backcountry sites.
Beach access limitations: Some coastal sites have restricted beach access. "The tide was high both times we tried to walk under the highway to get to the beach but there were parking lots just a short drive up the road," reports a Crystal Cove visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Beach activities: Coastal cabin sites offer family-friendly water recreation. "We stay here every year. They have activities for the kids like arts and crafts, an inflatable obstacle course or you can rent paddle boards or watch a movie on the beach," explains a Newport Dunes visitor.
Mountain exploration for kids: Forest cabins provide nature discovery opportunities. At Crystal Lake Rec Area, "The cafe isn't cheap but I swear has the nicest people and the best cocoa. Bring your dirt bike and hit some of the trails, it's a definite must!" recommends a regular visitor.
Noise considerations: Some cabin locations may not be suitable for light sleepers. "Very large park for RV, cabin and tent camping. As it's listed as a 'resort', we figured it would be pretty upscale. Disappointment upon our arrival," notes a Thousand Trails Soledad Canyon visitor.
Tips from RVers
Mixed-use facilities: Many locations accommodate both RVs and cabin campers. At Point Mugu Recreation Facility, "There is a whole spectrum of camping and lodging options available, from simple basic tent camping, to reserving one of their yurts, to car or RV camping with full hookups, to cabins and even a very nice beach motel."
Military access: Some premium coastal cabin sites are limited to military personnel. "The Point Mugu NAS campground is part of the military MWR program, therefore you need to be active duty or retired from one of the uniformed services, or be sponsored by someone who is," explains a visitor to Point Mugu Recreation Facility.
Campground maintenance: Facility conditions vary widely between locations. "You really have to stay on the front desk as far as getting a reservation confirmation email though. Over all the family liked it and we'll be back," advises a Point Mugu visitor.
